Bradenton was named after Dr. Joseph Braden. This early settler built a huge home in 1850 that became known as the Braden Castle for its ability to defend against Seminole Indian attacks. The town was incorporated in 1903 and then merged with neighboring Manatee in 1943. This yellow rock structure is the Fullerton Building. It opened in 1905 and housed the Manatee River National Bank. It is located at the corner of 12th Street and Manatee Avenue in the center of historic downtown Bradenton.
